Related Articles

Terlingua, a district of Texas that lies not far from the Rio Grande and the state’s border with Mexico, has an Old West mining history now epitomized by the Terlingua Ghost Town. With proximity to the Big Bend National Park and the Chisos Mountains, the area around Terlingua provides ample opportunities for camping and outdoor recreation. Knowing the particulars about climate, geography and area activities will help you decide when and how to camp in Terlingua.

Weather, Location and Activities

Step 1

Plan a time to camp when the weather is comfortable for you. Terlingua is a desert region and the temperatures swelter in May and June. There is not a lot of humidity in the area, but if you are adverse to rain, you might avoid camping from July to October. Some folks, however, enjoy experiencing rain in the desert, and during this time the area can experience exciting thunderstorms. Fall and early spring are the most moderate periods. The winter is mostly moderate; however, snow and episodes of cold weather can occur.

Step 2

Find a place to camp that will suit your needs. In the area around Terlingua you can find lodges, cottages, tent sites and RV parks. Choose from the desert or go up into the mountains. Keep in mind that the mountains will be cooler during hotter seasons and that hillier camping areas are not equipped for RV’s. Camping sites range from those that have the bare minimum of amenities to those that have swimming pools, laundry facilities and restaurants. Major camping sites in the area, all run by the National Park Service, include the Rio Grande Village Campground, the Chisos Basin Campground, the Castolon Campground and the Chisos Mountain Lodge. RV sites include the Longhorn City RV Park, the Terlingua Ranch Lodge and the Big Bend Motor Inn.

Step 3

Find area activities that will be fun for you. In the Big Bend National Park, campers can enjoy climbing, hiking, boating and biking. Bird lovers should definitely head to the area during the spring, which sees a major influx of migrating birds. Guided trips on the Rio Grande River are available, or you can buy a permit at the Big Bend visitor center and use your own boat. Fun family attractions include the Fossil Bone Exhibit and the Mountain Lion Exhibit. Kid-friendly hiking trails include the Window View Trail and the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail. Hit the Lost Mine Trail for a more challenging day hike.

References

Resources

About the Author

Mason Howard is an artist and writer in Minneapolis. Howard's work has been published in the "Creative Quarterly Journal of Art & Design" and "New American Paintings." He has also written for art exhibition catalogs and publications. Howard's recent writing includes covering popular culture, home improvement, cooking, health and fitness. He received his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Minnesota.

Photo Credits

Pecos River Joins the Rio Grande image by Felipe Fernandez from Fotolia.com